Godello

Godello has found its home in the Northwest Spanish region of Galicia, particularly in the Valdeorras DO. The lay of the land and influence of the Atlantic Ocean make this a perfect area for white varietals to flourish, producing fresh and intriguing wines, according to our Godello Wine Ratings. The granite, clay and slate ridden soils in conjunction with the maritime climate yield zesty, fresh wines with plenty of green apple, melon, mineral and lemon flavors. The varietal also has many other names, including Goveio, Verdello, Godella and Trincadente. Our Godello Wine Reviews allude to the recent modernization and restructuring of the Valdeorras DO, which has led to many of the single vineyard Godello wines attaining high accolades.

Palacios started his Valdeorras winery in 2004, and in short order he has established himself as a quality leader. His As Sortes is 100% Godello, from dry-farmed vines with age. This wine is rich, with ample oak, fresh and dry fruit flavors, and a walnut-infused finish. Quite Burgundian in style.

From extremely old Godello vines, this barrel-fermented wine comes only in magnums. It’s currently showing a lot of oak, but it’s also extremely well structured. It has an acid backbone that nobody could crack. Very serious, with intense apple, pear and minerality. Much like a fine Burgundy.

This barrel-aged Godello is about as elegant and elevated as they come. The nose of dusty apple with light spice and vanilla notes defines elegance, while flavors of apple, lemon, woodspice and vanilla interact seamlessly. Everything is composed and connected; the wine is well balanced, lightly oaked and classy. 400 cases produced.

A lot of depth and minerality jump up from the bouquet. The palate on this slate-driven Godello is rich but right, the perfect balance between body, acidity and fruit pulp. Tastes of dry spiced apple and melon, with a bit of citrus. A stately, elegant wine with power to boot. Ideal for Valdeorras.

Melon and peach aromas offer mild slate and stone notes. This feels plump and pulpy but not heavy, with good acidity. Peach, white grapefruit and green melon comprise the flavor profile, while the finish is melony, and fattens up with time in the glass.

Stone-fruit and melon aromas are crystal clean and inviting as can be. The palate blends citrus pith with creamy richness and minerality. Flavors of orange and white grapefruit are a touch pithy, while the finish brings weight, solidity and confirmation. Everything that’s good about Godello is on display.

This Godello is light, fruity and offers nice lime and apple aromas. It’s linear, minerally and has a true slate feel, then stony flavors of tangerine and ripe peach take over. A juicy, pure finish tops it off.

Almond and mineral accents aid the nose on this fuller-bodied Godello that offers polished apple and peach flavors, a refined and complex mouthfeel and a long finish. Delivers quality for the price, so the value quotient is high.